Archive for January, 2008

Life In The “Land Of Lincoln”: Explore Illinois – Illinois Travel Information

Thursday, January 31st, 2008

Illinois is a myriad of sites and sounds, history and multiculturalism, all blended harmoniously into what is considered a perfect microcosm of the United States. The exploding diversity of the north and Chicagoland balances perfectly with the wilderness and historic sites of the south.

Central Illinois is a notable mix of fantastic stops that will certainly round out your travel to Illinois. It also happens to be where President Abraham Lincoln’s former home and the state’s capital is located. In Springfield, take a stop at Looking for Lincoln, a collection of houses, buildings and countryside where the 16th president actually spent time. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is also located in the heart of Springfield. You can also get your kicks in Central Illinois where the Historic Route 66 passes through the state. Along the way, stop at the Amish Interpretive Center for a glimpse into the life and history of the Old Order Amish community. The fun is certainly not over yet; convince the kids that Santa does exist by visiting Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch where real Alaskan reindeer roam the grounds!

Illinois Foreclosure Listings offer Affordability And Opportunity.

Sunday, January 13th, 2008

In common with cities nationwide, the growth in foreclosures in Illinois state has always been greater among the lower priced property; more so in 2007 as the impact of adjustable rate mortgages extended in the last few years to home owners who did not have deposits or credit standing to qualify for prime 30 year loans has hit hard. Of the monthly rate of new foreclosure filings has reached 6,000 state wide, just over half have been in the Chicagoland area, more than 75% have adjustable rate mortgages. With the overall real estate market in the doldrums homeowners in pre foreclosure have found their opportunities for selling their homes become very limited and falling prices have resulted in the loss of any equity, making refinancing impossible for many.

The housing market is not so obviously in favor of the buyer outside the Chicago metro area. Just 20 miles away the young village community of Woodridge is known to keen golfers and an outstanding school system attracts young families. The average price of a single family home at $328,000 is daunting to first time home buyers, who may be able finance and bear the monthly payment schedule of the discounted value foreclosure home. South Elgin has a train commute link to Chicago, and a growing reputation for sound government, an outstanding environment attracting new residents every year. Libertyville with its strong rural character and historic district is yet another sought after location within commute distance of Chicago, and has affordable homes in polder areas of town; a foreclosure deal will make that extra- affordable!